A cognitive assessment is a structured evaluation of thinking skills such as memory, attention, language, problem‑solving and executive functioning. It helps identify whether changes are due to dementia, mild cognitive impairment, mental health conditions, or other factors such as stress, medication, or physical illness.

A mental capacity assessment determines whether a person can make a specific decision at a specific time. It follows the Mental Capacity Act (2005) and assesses whether the person can understand information, retain it, use or weigh it, and communicate their choice. Capacity is decision‑specific and time‑specific.

Common assessments include: testamentary capacity (wills), property & financial affairs, health & welfare decisions, capacity to litigate, capacity to enter contracts, capacity to consent to care or residence, and capacity for Lasting Power of Attorney.

All assessments are completed personally by a Consultant Psychiatrist in Older Adult Psychiatry. You will always see a senior clinician — never a trainee or assistant.

Assessments are usually completed in the person’s home, in a care home, in hospital, or via secure video call where appropriate. We cover Lincolnshire and surrounding areas.

Most assessments take 60–90 minutes depending on communication needs, complexity and whether collateral information is required. Testamentary capacity assessments are often shorter; complex multi‑domain assessments may take longer.

To ensure accuracy, we usually request background medical information, details of the decision being assessed, any relevant legal documents, contact details for family or carers, and GP or consultant letters (if available). If you don’t have this information, we can still proceed and advise.

The assessment is calm, respectful and paced to the person’s needs. It may include a conversation about the decision, cognitive testing (if relevant), exploring understanding, reasoning and communication, and speaking with family or carers (with consent).

You will receive a clear, court‑ready report including background information, cognitive findings (if relevant), a structured capacity assessment, our professional opinion, and recommendations or next steps. Reports are usually completed within 5–7 days.

Fees vary depending on the type of assessment, travel distance, complexity, and whether a written report is required. Most assessments fall between £400–£650. The fee is always confirmed in advance.

Yes — urgent or same‑week assessments can often be arranged.

Yes. Many people with dementia retain capacity for some decisions. The Mental Capacity Act requires that we assume capacity unless proven otherwise, and we always work to support the person to make their own decision wherever possible.

Yes — we regularly complete assessments for wills and probate teams, Court of Protection teams, family law, litigation, and conveyancing and property teams. We provide clear, defensible medico‑legal reports.

Yes, if the person wishes. Some parts of the assessment may be completed privately to ensure the person can speak freely.

If the person lacks capacity for the specific decision, we will explain the reasons clearly, outline what support may help, and advise on next steps such as best‑interests decisions, LPA or Court of Protection.

You can contact Lincolnshire Mental Health Consultancy via email () or phone (07537 121 895). We will guide you through the process and arrange a suitable time.

Yes — we provide CPD sessions for solicitors, care homes and professional teams on the Mental Capacity Act, testamentary capacity, cognitive assessment, and dementia and mental health in older adults.

Yes. Information is shared only with your consent unless there is a safeguarding concern. We are fully GDPR‑compliant and registered with the ICO.